Diagnosis of subtle thoracolumbar burst fractures. A new radiographic sign

A previously undescribed radiographic sign, the posterior vertebral body angle is successful in distinguishing subtle burst type fractures from compression fractures of the thoracolumbar spine. Correct diagnosis is imperative for proper treatment and accurate prognosis. When positive, this sign will alert the orthopaedist so that further diagnostic testing with computed tomography or sagittal tomograms may be performed. The sensitivity of this sign in diagnosing subtle burst type injuries is 75%.